FC releases November ranking for 2012 NHL Draft

Nail Yakupov of the Sarnia Sting continues to be the most attractive prospect for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

It’s not hard to see why.

Yakupov has simply tormented opposing goaltenders during his Ontario Hockey League reign. This season has been no different.

After recording 49 goals and 106 points in 65 games last season, the Nizhnekamsk native hasn’t just picked up where he left off – he’s demolishing it. Yakupov has nine goals and 29 points in just 13 games this season for sole possession of first place in the OHL scoring race.

Though Yakupov is starting to distance himself from his 2012 draft eligible counterparts, there are still prospects that continue to gain momentum.

Red Deer Rebels defenseman Mathew Dumba has jumped in the November ranking. Slotted eighth last month, Dumba has climbed to third behind just Yakupov and fellow Western Hockey League blueliner Ryan Murray – who is currently sidelined up to six weeks with a high ankle sprain.

Ottawa 67’s defenseman Cody Ceci has jumped on the edge of the top-10 after an impressive start that has seen him record eight assists and 10 points in as many games.

Another pair of OHL defensemen have mimicked Ceci’s climb. Slater Koekkoek of the Peterborough Petes saw a similar jump, moving from 17th to 12th in the span of a month, while Finnish defender Olli Maatta of the London Knights spiked to 18.

But with risers also come fallers.

Edmonton Oil Kings defenseman Griffin Reinhart has slipped from the top 10 to 13th overall, while both Nicolas Kerdiles and Ville Pokka have fallen, at least temporarily, out of the first round.